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Following the recent cost hike for Game Pass Ultimate, the initial commotion has subsided. Although it may not be considered the absolute best offer in gaming anymore, the platform has welcomed a number of big-name launch day games recently, including Ninja Gaiden 4 and The Outer Worlds 2. These titles only enhance a massive library of numerous games ideal for weekend gaming binges.

This week's recommendations feature a therapeutic action game, an prize-winning indie gem, and a essential HD-2D RPG.

Resistance: Sniper Elite

From time to time, we all require a bit of release. For 20 years, the Sniper Elite franchise has provided precisely that. Rebellion Developments' enduring shooter line offers players ultraviolent carnage targeting enemy forces. Recently, Rebellion launched Sniper Elite: Resistance, a timely addition to the series. Although it doesn't reinvent the formula, Resistance is a well-constructed serving of simulation World War II sandboxes filled with Nazi targets. The sniping is as visceral and satisfying as always, featuring the series' trademark killcam showing every bullet's impact in gory, explicit detail. It's a bloody excitement for any pacifist looking to let off steam in the safety of a digital world.

Resist 1000x

1000xResist tells an critically acclaimed narrative touching on life after a pandemic existence, family trauma, and other deep themes. It examines these subjects through a science fiction perspective; you assume the role of Watcher, one of several clones of Iris, the only person left of a global outbreak that wiped out humanity. Watcher and her sister clones explore Iris's recollections from when Earth was beset by that horrific plague, as well as experiences of her education and family life, both of which were easy for a teenager. Watcher discovers Iris isn't what she appears, and the plot develops from there. Should all that intrigue isn't enough to hook you, the game indeed start with a killing. What could be a more compelling start than this?

Octopath Traveler II

Yes, completing a extremely long RPG in just nine days is a tall order, but if any game deserving attempting the effort for, it's Octopath Traveler 2. Square Enix's visually striking gem is departing Game Pass at the end of November (along with the first game, which is also included). But, with a break in the middle, at least for players in the States, it's technically achievable. Octopath Traveler 2 follows eight characters, every one representing a different story style. You'll find a procedural story about a priest investigating the death of his cathedral's archbishop. A trader striving to eradicate poverty through the power of commerce stars in a western-themed narrative. Additionally, there's a mystery about an herbalist with amnesia (since every good RPGs need a hero with an unknown background, of course). Some of these plots connect in surprising, intriguing ways, while you progress through a stunning 19th-century themed setting. And the battle system is superb — “number go up” boiled to its essence.